I, Anke Korthauer, was born on the equinox day in September 1962 in Düsseldorf and grew up there. At 1.57 metres, it's hard to say I 'grew up.' Somehow, even as a child, I got on everyone's nerves, questioned things and didn't take everything for granted. I rebelled - or withdrew if I thought that was better. I often got into fights and sometimes wasn't particularly popular. I painted and drew from an early age, as soon as I could hold a pencil. Since I need my pictures to live and not sell them, I decided on a craft profession, which I carried out with enthusiasm until the industry's collapse as a master [...] I have always loved exploring countries, I have travelled a lot. Africa, Australia, New Zealand and the Caribbean, to name a few, are on the list alongside many European countries. But Ireland is my favourite. And every time I returned to Düsseldorf after a trip, the world there seemed narrower and more petty. I had and still feel that I can't be myself in that world.I visited Ireland for the first time in the summer of 1979, when Björn Borg beat John McEnroe in the Wimbledon final. How I admired McEnroe, the rebel on the noble tennis court! Since then, I vacationed here almost every year, cried my eyes out when I had to return home and just pined to live here. In 1997, I had a short guest appearance in Ireland for 10 months and then moved there for good in March 2005. Düsseldorf will always be my 'home, ' but today I feel 'at home' in Ireland. Even though the Irish are different following the Celtic Tiger - money spoils character - they are still as lovable and helpful as they ever were - once you have gained their trust. I love this country and feel right safe [...] you would like to learn more about my art and talents, please visit my website: [...]